1985 Ford F150 XLT: Connecting Throttle Kickdown Rod

Hey there! Sounds like you’ve got a sweet setup with your ‘85 F150 XLT Lariat. The 302, combined with that cam and Edelbrock carb, should give you a nice boost in performance. Let’s get that throttle kickdown rod hooked up!

Connecting the Throttle Kickdown Rod

1. Locate the Kickdown Arm on the AOD Transmission:

   • First, find the kickdown lever on the driver’s side of the AOD transmission. It’s usually a small arm that can pivot. Make sure you have enough room to connect the rod without any obstructions.

2. Connect to the Carburetor:

   • On your Edelbrock Thunder ASV 600 carburetor, you’ll want to find the throttle linkage. There should be a hole in the throttle arm for the kickdown rod.
   • If you don’t see a designated hole, you might need to attach it to a point on the throttle arm that allows for proper travel while still giving full throttle when you push the pedal down.

3. Adjust the Length of the Kickdown Rod:

   • Ensure the rod is the right length to connect the carburetor and the transmission without being too tight or too loose. If it’s adjustable, set it so that the transmission kickdown lever can go to its full range of motion.

4. Set Up Proper Free Play:

   • There should be a little bit of free play in the kickdown rod. You want to ensure that the throttle can open fully without the rod being pulled taut. A common rule of thumb is to have about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of free play.

5. Test the Setup:

   • After connecting everything, start the engine and test the throttle. Shift through the gears and make sure the kickdown is functioning properly. You should feel a noticeable downshift when you accelerate hard.

Quick Tips

• Check for Binding: Make sure there are no binding points in your linkage. A smooth connection is crucial for operation.
• Consult the Manual: If you have a service manual for the AOD or the carb, it can provide more specific details about the installation.
• Community Support: Don’t forget, if you want to share your experiences or ask for tips from other Bullnose enthusiasts, the Bullnose Ford subreddit (reddit.com/r/bullnoseford) is a great resource!

Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further clarification. Happy wrenching!